Today, we think of how Pepto-Bismol soothes the digestive system after we've overindulged at a meal. Or, we think of it as a travel companion that can help soothe stomach upsets associated with traveler’s diarrhea. But in its early days, a different form of Pepto-Bismol did more than comfort; it actually helped treat symptoms of a more serious illness.

The formula of the pink medicine we now call Pepto-Bismol was originally developed at the start of the 20th century, when high standards of hygiene and sanitation weren't as widespread as today. Looking to cure a frightening form of cholera that caused severe diarrhea, vomiting, and sometimes death, a doctor concocted a formula in his home that proved effective against these symptoms. The formula (which was different from today's) was made from pepsin, zinc salts, salol, and oil of wintergreen, along with a colorant to make it pink, and he called it Mixture Cholera Infantum. (Researchers would later learn that this illness was caused by a bacterial infection, treatable with antibiotics.)

Sharing with the World

The invention of what we now know as Pepto-Bismol coincided with other health advances, such as milk pasteurization and public campaigns advocating hand washing.

The early success of Pepto-Bismol presented a production crisis for its inventor, who couldn't make enough product in his home to satisfy demand. He brought his formula to what was then called the Norwich Pharmacal Company in Norwich, New York. Norwich Pharmacal had a way to increase production dramatically – by manufacturing it in 20-gallon tubs.

Norwich added the remedy to its catalog for medical professionals, with the product name Bismosal: Mixture Cholera Infantum. Norwich tinkered with the doctor's formula a bit and advertised the improved product as an "elegant, pleasantly flavored" mixture.

During the 1920s, Pepto-Bismol was sold at drugstore soda fountains. This print ad promoted large bottles with stoppers, from which druggists dispensed single doses.

Pepto-Bismol Today

Over the years, studies found that bismuth subsalicylate is the ingredient that makes Pepto-Bismol work, and that is listed as the active ingredient today.

Bismosal's name was changed in 1919 to Pepto-Bismol. The name change made it easier for Norwich to promote the product for use by adults. As Pepto-Bismol, the product became Norwich's leading nonprescription drug.

Pepto-Bismol came to the Procter & Gamble Company as part of the Company's acquisition of Norwich Eaton Pharmaceuticals in 1982. It's now sold in several countries around the world.

Although Pepto-Bismol was originally created for alternate use, today's formula relieves travelers' diarrhea, diarrhea and upset stomach due to overindulgence in food and drink including: heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching and fullness.

PRODUCTS

*Use as directed for relief of diarrhea or upset stomach due to overindulgence in food and drink, including: heartburn, indigestion, nausea, gas, belching and fullness. If your symptoms get worse or last more than 2 days, stop use and consult your physician.

**Children's Pepto relieves heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, and upset stomach due to these symptoms or overindulgence in food and drink.